Thinking About Buying a House with a Pool? Here’s What I Tell My Buyers
If you follow me on social media, you’ve probably seen my pool - and you’ve definitely seen Fred, my inflatable alligator who floats around keeping the ducks away. (Yes, it works. Ducks see Fred and steer clear.)
I love having a pool. I use it every chance I get, and it’s a big part of how I enjoy the summer - whether it's with friends, family, or just getting some work done poolside while preparing for showings for my clients.
But as a real estate agent, I know how often buyers bring up this question:
“Should I keep a pool as one of my must-haves when house hunting?”
The honest answer is, it depends. Pools can be fantastic for the right household - but they also come with responsibilities, ongoing costs, and some risks if you’re not prepared.
Why People Want a Pool - and Why I Understand It
Built-in summer fun
Whether you have kids, grandkids, or just enjoy entertaining, a pool turns your backyard into an instant hangout. When the temps hit 90 and everyone else is packing up to drive to the beach or public pool, you’re just stepping outside and diving in. Personally, I can say it's one of the things that makes staying local feel like a vacation.
Great for kids, especially during breaks
If you're a parent, you know the stretch between camp ending and school starting can feel long. A pool gives kids something active and exciting to do, and it helps burn energy in the best way. It's also a nice way to bring friends and family together without planning a big trip.
Staycation central
You don’t need to travel to enjoy your summer. If your pool is set up with a few chairs, some shade, and a good playlist, that’s a full weekend plan without leaving your driveway.
Potential for added value
In towns like Wayne, Montville, and Kinnelon, a pool can help your home stand out - especially if it’s in great shape and paired with a well-maintained yard. It’s not a guarantee of higher value, but it can be a strong selling point for the right buyer.
But Let’s Talk About the Real Costs and Commitments
Pool maintenance isn’t free (or quick)
During the summer, I spend time each week checking chemical levels, skimming leaves, and making sure everything’s running right. Not everyone wants to handle that themselves. A professional pool service can take it off your plate, but it’ll cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per month.
Your utility bills will go up
Pumps run daily. Heaters, if you use them, pull energy. And you’ll refill the water due to evaporation, splash-out, and cleaning. Expect your water and electric bills to be noticeably higher during the summer.
Insurance and liability
Owning a pool means added risk, which usually means higher homeowners insurance premiums. Most policies will require extra liability coverage. You may also be required to have fencing with a locking gate or even a pool alarm, depending on your town or insurance company.
Property taxes can increase
A permanent in-ground pool may raise your home’s assessed value. That could bump your property taxes depending on how your town calculates improvements. Always ask about this before making an offer on a home with a pool.
Seasonal Use: Is It Worth It for Only a Few Months a Year?
This is a big one in New Jersey. You’ll realistically use your pool from late May through early September. That’s about four months of use - and eight months where you’re still maintaining, covering, or paying for it in some way.
I always tell buyers to think about how they spend their summers now. If you're often traveling or already have access to another pool, this might be a “nice to have” rather than a “need to have.”
Do I Regret Having a Pool? Not for a Second. But It’s Not for Everyone.
I really do love having a pool. It adds to my lifestyle and gives me a way to relax with my family at home. But I also know what goes into owning one - and I never want my clients to be surprised by those details.
When buyers tell me they really want to have a pool, I always walk them through the full picture. We talk about:
How often they’ll really use it
What kind of maintenance they’re comfortable handling
Whether their budget allows for the extra costs
If the layout still works for pets, playing, and entertaining
And sometimes, a buyer realizes they’d prefer a big flat yard with room for an above-ground pool, or even just a great patio and some shade. The good news is, there's no one right answer.
Final Thoughts: Ask the Right Questions Before You Dive In
If you're searching for a home this summer and dreaming about backyard swims, just make sure you're weighing fun against function. A pool can absolutely be a great part of your lifestyle - but only if it fits into your plans and your budget.
And if you're on the fence, reach out. I'm always happy to talk through the pros and cons based on your situation. I've helped a lot of buyers figure out if pool life is really what they're looking for - or if they just need a nice yard, some sprinklers, and a good view of the sunset.
Why Work with 1-Stop-Steve?
Homes in desirable towns like Wayne, Kinnelon, Riverdale, Montville, Pompton Plains, and Pequannock are selling quickly. Being prepared is key if you want to take advantage of this fast-paced market.
Working with an experienced realtor is the best way to stay ahead. With years of experience in New Jersey’s real estate market, I know what it takes to buy or sell a home here. I can guide you through the process and make sure you’re ready to act when the right opportunity comes up.
Whether you’re just starting or ready to make a move, I’m here to help with expert advice and personalized service.
Your Next Step
Ready to get started? Whether you’re listing and selling your home or looking to buy your dream home here in Wayne NJ, Kinnelon NJ, Riverdale NJ, Montville NJ, Pompton Plains NJ, or Pequannock NJ, I’m here to help. Let’s make your real estate goals a reality—call or text me at (973) 476-1728.
About Stephen Tinney
Stephen Tinney, Owner of 1-Stop-Steve and Coldwell Banker Sales Agent
I help my clients sell homes in Wayne NJ, Kinnelon NJ, Riverdale NJ, Montville NJ, Pompton Plains NJ, or Pequannock NJ and surrounding areas. My goal is to make the real estate process simple and successful.
I’m both a licensed Real Estate Agent and Mortgage Broker. This allows me to guide clients through every step of buying or selling a home.